European Travelers Reconsidering US Trips for World Cup 2026 Amid Rising Costs and Uncertainty

Published on February 6, 2026

As the world gears up for the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across three countries, European travel to the United States is showing a significant decline. Despite the event being a major draw for global visitors, early flight booking data suggests that fewer Europeans are planning to visit the U.S. during the summer of 2026, including for the World Cup. This shift in travel behavior has caught the attention of both tourism officials and industry experts, raising questions about changing patterns in international travel to the U.S.

According to recent airline booking data, there has been a noticeable drop of around 14% in flight bookings from Europe to the U.S. compared to the same period in 2025, particularly for the summer months leading up to the World Cup. While the U.S. remains a top destination for travelers worldwide, European visitors—particularly from countries like Germany, France, and the U.K.—are reconsidering their travel plans for reasons ranging from increased travel costs to geopolitical tensions and uncertainties surrounding global events.

Why Are European Tourists Hesitant to Visit the U.S. for World Cup 2026?

Experts point to several factors that are influencing the decline in European bookings to the U.S. this summer. Political and economic factors, including concerns over safety and rising costs, are among the primary reasons behind this trend. According to reports from the U.S. Department of Commerce and other international tourism bodies, many Europeans are reassessing long-haul travel in light of global economic instability and escalating costs of flights and ground transport.

The impact of rising airfare costs is particularly concerning, as nearly three-quarters of European travelers (74%) have expressed concerns about the increasing expense of flights and ground transportation. In addition to higher prices, geopolitical tensions have made some Europeans reluctant to visit the U.S., with many travelers citing concerns over safety, especially in light of recent U.S. domestic policies. This comes at a time when European countries are facing their own political challenges and economic slowdowns, leading many tourists to seek alternative travel destinations.

What Does This Mean for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and Tourism in the U.S.?

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is set to take place across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, is one of the biggest sporting events in the world. Traditionally, the World Cup drives a significant influx of tourists from across the globe, with countries like Brazil, Germany, and France sending thousands of fans to cheer on their teams. However, early booking trends suggest that European demand for U.S.-based World Cup tourism may fall short of expectations.

Despite this, experts are confident that other regions, such as North America and Latin America, will provide the necessary boost to U.S. tourism during the World Cup. Countries like Mexico and Canada, which share a closer cultural and geographic connection to the U.S., are expected to see increased visitation to U.S. cities hosting World Cup matches. South American fans are also expected to travel in large numbers, providing a counterbalance to the decline in European arrivals.

For European fans, the higher costs of traveling to the U.S. are leading some to shift their travel plans toward destinations that are closer to home, including World Cup host cities in Mexico and Canada, or to alternative experiences like attending local tournaments or watching from home.

The Role of Technology and Digital Influencers in Changing Travel Patterns

Another important factor contributing to the decline in European bookings to the U.S. is the increasing influence of digital platforms and social media influencers. These platforms are reshaping how people make travel decisions, with many Europeans choosing destinations based on recommendations from influencers or popular online trends. Influencers in particular have the power to steer traffic away from traditional tourist hotspots by promoting alternative destinations that offer unique experiences at lower costs.

Many influencers specializing in travel and cultural experiences are now highlighting off-the-beaten-path destinations and smaller events, which could contribute to shifting tourism away from major U.S. hubs to other areas. This is especially true for younger, more budget-conscious travelers who prefer to avoid expensive flights and long-haul trips.

U.S. Travel Industry Faces Uncertainty Ahead of 2026 World Cup

As European demand weakens, the U.S. travel industry is facing uncertainty heading into the 2026 World Cup. While other markets such as South America and Asia are expected to pick up the slack, the decline in European travel represents a shift in global tourism dynamics that could have lasting impacts. Airlines, hoteliers, and tourism agencies are adjusting their strategies to cope with the changing landscape, focusing on markets that show more promise in the short term.

Despite the challenges, industry leaders remain optimistic. The U.S. Travel Association continues to project overall growth in international visitation, driven by ongoing efforts to enhance travel infrastructure, improve security measures, and expand cultural exchange programs. Tourism to the U.S. may still see growth in areas like business travel, conferences, and regional tourism, despite the dip in European visitation.

What Can Travelers Expect in the Coming Months?

For European travelers, the key to making the most of the situation is to stay informed about changing travel policies, flight costs, and available routes. With long-haul flights becoming more expensive and less frequent, many European tourists are turning to budget-friendly alternatives like shorter trips or off-peak travel periods.

Travel experts recommend booking flights early and considering more flexible travel dates to secure better prices. In addition, travelers are encouraged to explore alternative routes and nearby destinations that still offer the World Cup experience without the high price tag. For those committed to attending the World Cup in the U.S., travel planners suggest planning ahead to avoid the surge in demand during peak times and to secure seats on flights that are still available.

Looking Ahead: Will Travel Patterns Return to Normal After the World Cup?

As 2026 unfolds, the travel industry will likely continue to adapt to changing visitor patterns, especially as economic and political factors continue to influence global tourism. While the World Cup may not see the same influx of European visitors as previous tournaments, other regions are expected to fill the gap, ensuring that the U.S. still benefits from the event’s global appeal. It remains to be seen how these changes will affect future tourism patterns, but the global tourism industry is resilient, and many expect a return to growth once economic uncertainties stabilize.